Altair Announces Battery Advance

RENO, Nev., Feb. 15 -- Altair Nanotechnologies Inc. said it has achieved a breakthrough in lithium ion battery electrode materials that will enable a new generation of, and create new markets for, rechargeable batteries. It said the new materials enable the manufacture of rechargeable batteries with three times the power of existing lithium ion batteries, at the same price and with recharge times of a few minutes rather than hours.

Altair has confidentiality agreements in place with battery development companies to evaluate and commercialize its battery electrode materials. Altair's research and development efforts were recenlty granted two patents, and the company completed a National Science Foundation grant in January.

New markets for fast-charging batteries will include the handheld power tools market, hybrid electric vehicles, portable electronics and medical surgery tools.

Altair is a supplier of advanced ceramic nanomaterial technology. Its life sciences division is pursuing market applications in pharmaceuticals, drug delivery, dental materials, cosmetics and other medical markets. Its performance materials division is developing advanced materials for paints and coatings; titanium metal manufacturing, catalysts and water treatment; and alternative energy.

For more information, visit: www.altairnano.com